Eugene Maher was extremely supportive of his son Stephen’s career throughout his life, pals of the 62-year-old said

The victim of a callous hit-and-run was the father of a top League of Ireland football player, it emerged on Wednesday night.

Eugene Maher was extremely supportive of his son Stephen’s career throughout his life, pals of the 62-year-old said.

The father-of-two was knocked off his bike by a car in Clontarf, North Dublin, on Tuesday night.

The motorist drove on, leaving Mr Maher in a critical condition in the middle of the road.

His heartbroken wife Marie and children were being comforted by family and friends at their home in Griffith Downs, Whitehall, North Dublin, yesterday.

Stephen plays in midfield for Drogheda United, having had stints with the Republic of Ireland U21 team, Yeovil Town, Shamrock Rovers, St Patrick’s Athletic FC and Monaghan United FC.

The victim’s daughter, Lisa Marie Maher, is a model and the founder of a dance agency

Denis O’Sullivan, chairman of Home Farm FC, said last night: “Eugene was much loved.

“His son had played with distinction for the club for a good number of years. Our thoughts are with the family.”

Mr Maher owned his own audio and video company. He also enjoyed theatre and was a member of the O’Connell Musical Society.

A Society spokeswoman revealed: “Eugene sang a little bit but he wouldn’t have classed himself as the singer.

“However, his wife was very involved, she was our leading lady for a number of years.

“Eugene was a great supporter of the society. Some of our early photos and videos would have been because Eugene was hugely interested in that side of it.”

Mr Maher was cycling on the Clontarf Road when he was hit by a car – described by onlookers as a silver Volkswagen Golf – at the junction of Howth Road.

Emergency services rushed him to Beaumont Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

That evening, gardai in Marino recovered a similar car with a 05D registration plate and removed it for forensic examination.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or may have seen the VW car around the Fairview, Clontard Road, and Marino area on Tuesday between 6.15pm and 6.45pm is asked to contact Clontarf Garda Station on 01 666 4800 or the Confidential Line, 1800 666 111.